The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has urgently called on the administration of President Bola Tinubu to take immediate and decisive action to resolve the ongoing scarcity of the national currency, the Naira, across the country.
In a statement released on Friday by its President, Comrade Festus Osifo, and Secretary General, Comrade Nuhu Toro, the TUC expressed deep concern, alarm, and dismay over the sudden and unexplained shortage of the Naira. The statement highlighted the difficulties citizens face in accessing the currency from banks and ATMs, leading them to resort to using exploitative Point of Sale (P.O.S) operators who charge exorbitant rates.
The TUC emphasized that the scarcity of the Naira must be addressed promptly, warning that if the situation persists, the TUC, its affiliates, and allies would be compelled to explore their usual options when the working people feel cornered.
The statement further pointed out the astonishment of the TUC regarding the challenges faced by the Central Bank of Nigeria in making the national currency available to the working people and citizens. It described the current state of affairs as unfortunate and unacceptable, expressing frustration at the continued imposition of unnecessary hardship on Nigerians by what it deemed as insensitive and heartless actions and inactions of government agents and agencies. The TUC questioned the rationale behind subjecting ordinary Nigerians to such pain and tribulations, especially during the solemn Yuletide season.
The TUC’s statement serves as a strong call to action, urging the government to address the currency scarcity promptly and alleviate the challenges faced by the citizens.
